SmarterDividends

CAT vs CMCO: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?

As of Oct 18, 2026, CAT (Caterpillar Inc.) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 6 of 7 head-to-head metrics. CMCO offers the higher yield at 1.91%, CAT has the higher dividend-safety score.

Key facts: CAT vs CMCO

Data as of · Source: SmarterDividends data

  • As of Oct 18, 2026, Columbus McKinnon Corporation (CMCO) has the higher forward dividend yield at 1.91%, versus 0.89% for Caterpillar Inc. (CAT).
  • As of Oct 18, 2026, SmarterDividends grades CAT's dividend safety A (92/100) and CMCO's C (60/100).
  • By SmarterDividends' count as of Oct 18, 2026, CAT has raised its dividend for 32 consecutive years and CMCO for 0.
  • As of Oct 18, 2026, CAT pays out 26% of its earnings as dividends and CMCO pays out 133%.
Cite this page

SmarterDividends, "CAT vs CMCO: Dividend Yield, Safety & Value Compared," updated Oct 18, 2026, https://smarterdividends.com/compare/cat-vs-cmco

MetricCATCMCO
Forward yield0.89%1.91%
Annual dividend$6.52$0.28
Payout ratio26%133%
Years of growth32 yr0 yr
5-yr dividend growth7.2%3.1%
5-yr total return278%-67%
Dividend safety score92 (A)60 (C)
Fair value estimate$377.48—
Upside to fair value-48%—
Frequencyquarterlyquarterly
Market cap$335.9B$422.6M
P/E ratio31.5—

Higher yield

CMCO

1.91%

Safer dividend

CAT

Grade A

Faster growth

CAT

7.2%

CAT vs CMCO — FAQ

Is CAT or CMCO a better dividend stock?

On the data, CAT wins more head-to-head categories (6 vs 1). CMCO offers the higher yield (1.91%), while CAT has the stronger dividend-safety score. The right pick depends on whether you prioritise income, safety or value.

Which has a higher dividend yield, CAT or CMCO?

CMCO has the higher forward dividend yield at 1.91%, versus 0.89% for CAT.

Is CAT or CMCO safer?

CAT has the higher dividend-safety score (92/100 vs 60/100), reflecting stronger payout coverage and dividend-growth history.

See more dividend stock comparisons · data refreshes daily · for informational purposes only, not investment advice.